]]>In today’s world of viral videos and online how-to guides, there is no shortage of encouragement to take the Do-It-Yourself approach to a number of household projects. The same goes for automotive projects. If you own your own vehicle, you may have even taken advantage of some helpful videos and step by step DIY guides for basic car care. Being able to accomplish tasks on your own can be a great way to save time and money, but there are plenty of instances where you should just leave it up to the professionals at your local Vancouver auto body shop, especially when it comes to your vehicle. One of those instances is collision repairs. When it comes to making auto body repairs, you are better off avoiding the DIY approach all together. Here’s why:

You May Cause Inadvertent Damage

Nobody wants to make things worse by taking the DIY approach to a project, but when it comes to repairing collision damage on a car, that is exactly what you’ll probably end up doing. On the surface, repairing a minor dent, scratch or rust build up on your car’s body may seem pretty straightforward, especially after watching some DIY video guides online. Keep in mind however that these videos can easily be edited to give you the wrong impression about how easy collision repairs can be. Even a minor amount of damage to your car’s body can become a major problem if you use improper repair techniques, leading to higher repair costs and more time waiting for your car to be fixed. This is because dents and body damage require detailed repairs that focus on fixing the warped and distorted metal on your vehicle’s body. Simply popping a dent back into shape is rarely all that is required to fix the problem, which is why you should at least get a professional to assess the extent of the damage before attempting to fix the problem yourself. More often than not, you will just make the problem worse if you try to fix it without the proper tools or technique.

Problems with Paint

In the past, cars were given a single coat of paint which was applied using a one-step method. These days however there is much more that goes into fixing damaged paint on a vehicle’s surface. If you are unfamiliar with the proper steps you need to take to match and apply new paint to your car, you will likely just be adding to the problem, making your car look worse, not better, when you’ve finished. Applying paint to a damaged car requires a number of technical steps in order to ensure the paint refinishing isn’t noticeable or susceptible to fading or distortions. This requires a number of different professional grade tools such as sanders and polishers, as well as a specific paint match which can only be guaranteed by a professional. Without these tools and the necessary skills to take on this task, you will likely end up with more damage to the paint than you started with.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/why-you-shouldnt-diy-collision-repairs/feed/0Tips to Restore Faded Paint On Your Carhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/tips-to-restore-faded-paint-on-your-car/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/tips-to-restore-faded-paint-on-your-car/#respondWed, 27 Feb 2019 18:39:49 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=345Faded paint is one of the largest issues car owners face, but one that is often neglected. You don’t need […]

]]>Faded paint is one of the largest issues car owners face, but one that is often neglected. You don’t need to be an expert in car painting to get that car shining again. A quick trip to a Vancouver auto body shop, combined with these tips, and you’ll be ready to tackle faded paint yourself.

Vehicles manufactured after the 1980’s will have received a “two-stage” car painting, where manufacturers put a base coat of paint on, and then a clear coat on top. This car painting system is more durable than older methods, but will still fade over time. When you get your car new, chances are the paint will look great for a couple of years. What you may not be aware of is that the sun’s UV radiation is already doing damage. Other threats to the exterior paint are dirt, dust, and insects that buildup during use. As faded paint worsens over time, oxidation occurs and your car’s paint can start to get white blotches on it.

They say the best offense is a good defense, and its true with protecting against faded paint. Consider using a cover for your car, or parking indoors, while also washing regularly to stop buildup of contaminants.

Restoring Faded Paint

If your vehicle already has faded paint, here are some tips on getting that shine back.

Regular Car Washing

Keeping the car clean will go a long way in restoring faded paint. Grab a bottle of car shampoo and a micro fiber cloth from a Vancouver auto body shop to give it a thorough cleaning.

Removing Contaminants

After the first wash the car will probably appear to be clean, but you will need to look closer to see the surface contaminates still there. These contaminates could include tar, splattered insects, or airborne pollutants and may be hard to see. A good trick is to run your hand over the body of the vehicle using a plastic bag to increase your sensitivity to imperfections. Make sure to pick up a detailing clay and clay lubricant from an auto body shop. Following the instructions, apply to the areas where the contaminants are.

Paint Repair

Now look over the exterior carefully for any scratches in the cars paint. For any scratches in the clear coat you find, you should apply rubbing compound. For all other surface scratches and swirl marks you’ll see on the finish, you can get those out by applying some car polish. You should also consider using a rotary or dual-action polisher as these yield better results than polishing by hand. All of these products can be purchased from a Vancouver auto body shop.

Paint Sealant

After polishing, the paint should have a nice shine to it again. To keep it this way, you will want to apply a sealant that will keep the vehicle protected for months. Paint sealants are available at all Spotlite Collision auto body shops in Vancouver. For more information be sure to visit us in-store, or contact Spotlite Collision today!

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/tips-to-restore-faded-paint-on-your-car/feed/0How to Protect Your Car From Vancouver Rain Damagehttps://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-protect-your-car-from-vancouver-rain-damage/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-protect-your-car-from-vancouver-rain-damage/#respondWed, 27 Feb 2019 18:30:24 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=341The most noticeable thing about a vehicle is how good it looks on the outside. Keeping a vehicle’s paint bright […]

]]>The most noticeable thing about a vehicle is how good it looks on the outside. Keeping a vehicle’s paint bright and shiny isn’t just about appearances. Protecting the exterior of your vehicle is a good way to maintain its overall value and lifespan. Living in the Vancouver area causes a number of challenges to maintaining a vehicle’s shine. One challenge that can often be overlooked is rain damage. Vancouver gets a lot of rain, and while water is not inherently bad for your vehicle, the particles in the water can be. Car painting can be expensive and tiresome, so below are some tips on how to protect your car’s shine from rain damage in the Vancouver area.

Wash it Regularly

After a rainfall, you should be able to see the watermarks that are left on your vehicle. These marks are the impurities in the water, such as dirt, minerals and airborne pollutants. Your vehicle should have a “two-stage” car painting system, meaning it will have a base layer of paint and a second layer of clear coat on top. The clear coat can become contaminated by these watermarks and will begin to scratch if these are allowed to buildup. It is best to wash your car after a heavy rainfall or multiple times a month during rainy season. This way the impurities won’t have a chance to buildup and do damage.

Protect it With Wax

While keeping it clean is a good start, using an automotive wax adds another layer of protection from rain damage. Many of these wax products can provide you with up to a week of clear coat protection. Choosing a wax can be difficult, and while liquid waxes add protection, a premium paste wax will provide you with the best means to keeping your vehicle’s shine during Vancouver rainfalls.

Protect it with Sealant

If you want to take your vehicle’s protection to the next level in its fight against rain damage, it is recommended you get a coat of sealant. This type of clear coat car painting adds an extra layer and will be the best protection against any rain damage, and can be done at Spotlite Collision.

You don’t need to be an expert on car painting to protect your vehicle from rain damage. With these tips you should make it through Vancouver rains with a great shine! For any further questions or concerns about rain damage, be sure to visit us in-store, or contact our Vancouver Auto Body Shop directly today!

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-protect-your-car-from-vancouver-rain-damage/feed/0How to Fix a Car Paint Scratchhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-fix-a-car-paint-scratch/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-fix-a-car-paint-scratch/#respondFri, 14 Sep 2018 21:59:31 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=316A clean and well-maintained car not only helps its owner make a good impression wherever they may go, it can […]

]]>A clean and well-maintained car not only helps its owner make a good impression wherever they may go, it can also do a lot to ensure the car performs well throughout its lifespan. There are plenty of things that can cause a car to deteriorate before its time however. Issues like paint scratches may not seem very serious or problematic at first, but they can potentially lead to issues with your car’s bodywork and overall integrity. If a paint scratch is allowed to rust, it can mean major auto body repairs in the not too distant future. Fortunately, there is a simple way to fix car paint scratches before they become a major issue for your vehicle.

Assess the Depth of the Scratch

The first thing you should do when you notice a scratch on your car’s paint finish is determine how deep the scratch happens to be. A shallow scratch is usually something that can be fixed at home in a few easy steps. Anything that reaches deeper into the paint finish should be looked at by a trained professional. Run your fingernail along the surface of the scratch. If your nail catches in the scratch, it may mean the scratch has reached through the protective clear coats and into the paint itself. These scratches are often too deep to fix at home.

Prep for Paint Repairs

Once you’ve determined whether or not you are able to fix the scratch on your own, you can prepare for repairs by cleaning and sanding the affected surface. Begin by washing the surface of the car thoroughly. This will prevent dust and dirt from contaminating the new paint and sealer coat and causing problems in the future. You should then sand the area directly around the scratch edges to create a smooth surface on which you can apply new paint and sealer. A 2000 grit wet sandpaper is usually the best choice to use on this type of project.

Shallow Scratch Repair

Once the area is clean and sanded, you can finish your repairs if the scratch is shallow and only happens to affect the clear coat surface. You can then dab a small amount of rubbing compound which can be purchased at a local hardware or auto body repair shop onto the scratch. Start with a small amount and add more if necessary to prevent unnecessary removal of existing clear coat. Once the space is clear of any excess clear coat, you can apply a new clear coat finish using wipe on car wax. Wipe in a circular motion until the wax becomes invisible. After you let the wax dry it should repel any water, and will make the shallow scratch disappear.

Deep Scratch Repair

Some scratches that go deeper may need a few new layers applied before the clear coat finish. In these cases, you should purchase a paint and primer touch up kit for your car that matches the existing colour. Once you have the kit, you can apply the new primer, paint and clear coat sealer to a clean and sanded area in and around the scratch. First add the primer and let it dry overnight. You can then add the touch up paint after shaking it well and dabbing it so it covers the edges of the chip or scratch. Once the area is filled with enough paint layers and has had a chance to dry completely, give it another layer of clear coat to finish it completely. You can then add a new wax layer to the entire vehicle to give it a universally bright new finish.

For scratches that are too deep to adequately repair and finish at home, be sure to bring your car to the autobody repair experts in Vancouver at Spotlite Collision. Our team specializes in performing paint scratch and chip repairs that are virtually invisible. We also specialize in paint and body repairs for all European vehicle models, so don’t hesitate to bring your car to our shop the next time you need any major or minor body damage fixed right away.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/how-to-fix-a-car-paint-scratch/feed/0Paint Care for Volkswagenshttps://spotlitecollision.ca/paint-care-for-volkswagens/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/paint-care-for-volkswagens/#respondWed, 15 Aug 2018 17:22:04 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=311Taking care of your vehicles paint not only keeps your vehicle looking brand new for longer, it can also help […]

]]>Taking care of your vehicles paint not only keeps your vehicle looking brand new for longer, it
can also help prolong your vehicles life. There is a wide range of car wash and detailing products
available, suitable for all makes and models. This surplus of options may also make caring for your
vehicles paint seem overwhelming; leaving you wondering if you have the right products for your
vehicle. Popular European brands, such as Volkswagen often require specialized parts, making
maintenance more difficult for the Do It Yourself enthusiast. At Spotlite Collision we know our way
around a vast array of Volkswagen and European models. Through our 40 years of experience servicing
the people of Vancouver, we have gained a few helpful tips when it comes to Volkswagen paint care.

The best and easiest way to care for the paint of your vehicle is to regularly wash and wax your
vehicle. We recommend a good wash at least once or twice a month to remove bugs, bird droppings
and salt. If left these things can cause stains to form. As for waxing, it is recommended that you wax
your vehicle with the changing of the seasons, or more regularly in harsher weather conditions. If
possible, we recommend that you clean your vehicle in an area free of dust and sand and out of direct
sunlight. Pieces of dust and sand can become lodged in your cleaning cloths and cause scratches when
dragged across your vehicles paint. A helpful tip to avoid possible scratches is to use multiple cloths.
Cleaning under direct sunlight can cause your soap and wax to dry too quickly, resulting in a hazy
residue.

First, rinse your car thoroughly to wash away any loose dirt or dust from your vehicle’s surface.
Then using a microfiber cloth and a gentle car cleaner wash the exterior of your vehicle. It is recommended
that you always use a cleaner made specifically for vehicles. DO NOT use dish soap as dish soap can
strip the wax and leave a dull finish. Once you have completely dried your vehicle you can apply your
wax. Wax is a great and easy way to keep your vehicle looking brand new and prolong its life. Using a
microfiber cloth apply a thin, even coat of wax to a single portion of your vehicle, using a circular motion.
When your wax begins to dry to a haze go back and clean off the wax with a dry cloth.

To avoid any unnecessary damage when detailing your vehicle, we recommend that you do not
use polish or hard-wax on matte finished or plastic parts. Regular wax can affect the finish of matte paint
and it is better to use a sealant specifically made for a matte paint. Polishes and waxes left on plastic
parts can leave a chalky white stain, due to the polish/wax working its way into the pores of the plastic.
The best way to avoid this is to clean these areas of all polish/wax as quickly as possible.

At Spotlite Collision, we specialize in European body repair and restoration. Our skilled
technicians know their way around a wide range of European makes and models, whether at the bottom
with frame straightening or at the top with our state-of-the-art paint matching system. So bring yourVolkswagen, Mercedes or BMW to Spotlite Collision where we can make it looking good as new.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/paint-care-for-volkswagens/feed/0The Evolution of the VW Golf | Auto Body Shop Vancouverhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/the-evolution-of-the-vw-golf/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/the-evolution-of-the-vw-golf/#respondThu, 05 Jul 2018 00:03:16 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=304The Volkswagen Golf has remained one of the most popular Volkswagen models since being introduced in 1974. Initially, this car […]

]]>The Volkswagen Golf has remained one of the most popular Volkswagen models since being introduced in 1974. Initially, this car was created as a replacement for the more dated design of the Volkswagen Beetle, but it has since become a one of Volkswagen’s most versatile and reliable offerings to date. In its lifetime, the VW Golf has undergone a series of upgrades and changes that have helped keep it a popular choice for all kinds of drivers. Below you’ll find a brief timeline that tracks the evolution of the VW Golf and the innovative designs and upgrades that have resulted in the car we know today.

VW Golf 1974

The Golf is introduced as a roomier alternative to the Volkswagen Beetle. The first model of the Golf featured a design that could be more adaptive to the needs of a wide range of drivers. The Golf, which was originally named the Rabbit, was comfortable and offered a notable amount of space for such a compact vehicle.

VW Golf 1983

Less than a decade after its initial release, the VW Golf underwent a major overhaul which brought about a number of significant changes to the overall design. The Golf would now include a new turbocharged engine, four wheel drive, power steering and a regulated catalytic converter. The body design was also made wider and longer. These upgrades to the original Golf design helped make the car immensely popular among drivers, and has led to nearly 6.5 million being since it was released.

VW Golf 1991

As the 90s rolled in, Volkswagen introduced a third version of their popular Golf model. Like the previous upgrade, this version of the Golf would feature more additions and innovations designed to improve performance, safety and the overall versatility of the vehicle. A sleeker, more aerodynamic body design was among the more visible upgrades, but additional improvements under the hood and inside the vehicle would also catch driver’s attention. A new 2.0L direct injection diesel engine would bring higher performance, while new side airbags would offer additional safety to drivers.

VW Golf 1997

By the fourth instalment of the VW Golf, the designers had really begun to hit their stride when it came to introducing popular upgrades to an already successful design. The vehicle’s interior was altered to be more reflective of many other luxury vehicles, and performance was also improved with the introduction of electronic stability control.

VW Golf 2003

A little more than five years after VW’s fourth version of the Golf was introduced, they continued to add to the vehicle by focusing on making the driving experience more enjoyable for a wider variety of drivers. This meant adding features like an upgrades turbocharged direct injection diesel engine, rain sensors and a seven speed DSG gearbox.

VW Golf 2008

Although there had already been numerous upgrades and additions made to the VW Golf by this time, there were still some areas of the vehicle’s performance that could be improved. An auto start/stop system, park assist, hill start assist and brake energy recovery would help improve overall performance and driving experience. Other additions like VW’s new electronic direct chassis control would help the Golf handle better by allowing it to adapt to different driving conditions.

VW Golf 2012

The latest overhaul of the VW Golf offers new design features that focus on efficiency without sacrificing performance. A new, lighter TSI engine offers the same great performance drivers expect from the Golf, while a multi-collision braking system adds to the vehicle’s safety feature. Finally, the addition of a touchscreen audio system has helped the Golf solidify itself as a truly modern vehicle that is ideal for today’s driver.

Many innovations have gone into the VW Golf over the years, and in that time Spotlite Collision has always been ready to offer top quality repairs on all Golf models. We specialize in body repairs for the VW Golf as well as a number of other German import vehicles. The next time you need a reliable Vancouver based collision repair service for your VW Golf, be sure to contact the experts at Spotlite Collision,Auto Body Shop in Vancouver.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/the-evolution-of-the-vw-golf/feed/0The Most Popular European Cars in Vancouverhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/european-cars-in-vancouver/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/european-cars-in-vancouver/#respondWed, 04 Jul 2018 23:55:45 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=300In major Canadian cities like Vancouver, it is not uncommon to see a vast selection of cars o the road […]

]]>In major Canadian cities like Vancouver, it is not uncommon to see a vast selection of cars o the road made by a number of manufacturers based all over the world. Although it is true that European imports are not as popular on Canadian roads compared to cars made by North American and Asian based manufacturers, there are plenty of examples of popular European cars all over Vancouver streets. Below you’ll find a list of some of the most popular European vehicles found on Vancouver streets today. For each of these vehicles, the auto collision experts at Spotlite Collision are ready to offer top quality repairs. We are fully stocked with a great selection of replacement parts for cars made by Audi, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen and more! So, let’s see what are the most popular European cars in Vancouver

Audi

Audi makes a great selection of vehicles that combine luxury features with high-performance engines that offer comfort and performance to drivers. Their most popular models that can be found in Canadian cities in Vancouver include the Audi A4 and A5 sedans, as well as the Audi Q5 SUV. The Q5, in particular, has been among the best selling European cars across Canada, and continues to experience higher sales numbers each year. The A4 and its predecessor the A5 are also continuously growing in popularity. Since being introduced in 2017, the A4 has quickly become Canada’s third best-selling premium passenger car. As European imports continue to grow in popularity, Audi remains a big part of that niche group, so don’t be surprised to see more and more driving on Vancouver roads in the near future.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes vehicles have long been among the most popular luxury European imports available in North America. They continue to offer a great selection of cars that are suited to a wide range of driver’s needs. In terms of overall popularity, the Mercedes C Class vehicles which include sedan, coupe and convertible models, stand head and shoulders above the competition. These premium passenger cars are extremely popular among Vancouver drivers. However, the popularity of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, which is an adapted SUV design of existing C Class vehicles, has begun to emerge as a very popular choice among drivers in Vancouver as well as across Canada.

BMW

The BMW 3 Series remains a highly popular option among Vancouver drivers, second only to the Mercedes C class. In recent years, BMW has expanded the number of models offered to North American drivers, which has contributed to a slight downturn in sales of the 3 Series. This has not affected BMW’s overall sales in North America, as the BMW 4 Series has been introduced to a Canadian market that is hungry for astrong selection of high-performance luxury vehicles.

Volkswagen

Easily the most popular choice among drivers looking for quality European manufactured vehicles, Volkswagen brings a number of quality options to the Canadian market. Despite the downturn in sales in the wake of the 2015 diesel emission scandal, models like the VW Golf, Jetta and Tiguan remain popular choices among Vancouver drivers. The Golf offers excellent performance and versatility for drivers, while the Jetta keeps setting the standard for performance and luxury in an affordable European import. Meanwhile, the Tiguan remains a popular option for drivers looking for a spacious vehicle that offers excellent comfort and performance.

When it comes to finding the ideal auto collision service for these popular European import vehicles, there is no better choice for Vancouver drivers than Spotlite Collision. We specialize in providing top quality repairs of a wide range of European cars. To find out more, or to inquire about any repairs your vehicle may require, be sure to contact our Auto Body Shop in Vancouver today!

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/european-cars-in-vancouver/feed/0How to Choose the Right Auto body Shop in Vancouverhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/choose-right-autobody-shop-vancouver/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/choose-right-autobody-shop-vancouver/#respondMon, 23 Apr 2018 19:34:12 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=281 Finding a reliable auto body shop can be a stressful time for even the savviest of car enthusiast. Everyone has […]

]]> Finding a reliable auto body shop can be a stressful time for even the savviest of car enthusiast. Everyone has heard horror stories of people being taken for a ride by shady mechanics who do subpar work or swindle inexperienced car owners into paying more than they need to. We at Spotlite Collision want to help alleviate as much stress as possible. We have been repairing cars and trucks in Vancouver since 1978 and in those 40 years, we have never deviated from being an honest and reliable auto body repair shop. We know not only what makes a great auto body shop, but also what people should be looking for if they want good, honest labour.

One of the most crucial steps you must take when looking for an auto body shop in Vancouver is to ask questions. You should never be afraid to question or even challenge a mechanic’s decisions.Ask about their process, what steps to the take to ensure quality work, such as the type of body filler they use when smoothing out a repaired dent.Don’t be afraid to do your research. Cheap body filler, while looking the same, does not last nearly as long as quality body filler and can leave your car with unseemly blemishes.You should also take a look around the shop.Is it clean? Does it look like a disorganized mess with car parts lying all over the place?You want your mechanic to take pride in their work because when they take pride in their work you and your vehicle benefit. Also, take a look at their equipment. Does it look high-end or old?At ICBC accredited auto body shop Spotlite Collision we have the top-of-line equipment, including state-of-the-art computerized paint-matching technology as well as Glasurit automotive refinishing products.

Another helpful tip in looking for a reliable auto body repair shop in Vancouver is to look at customer reviews. ICBC accredited auto body shop Spotlite Collision can be found on Google and Yelp and on both sites you can read first-hand accounts of previous customers and the experiences they have had with us.Also be sure to ask for recommendations from others who have been in a similar situation.When it comes to auto body repair people will always be sure to give you the truth. Always be sure to get a written estimate and not a verbal one, as verbal ones are subject to change and are relate solely on your word against theirs. We at Spotlite Collision offer free estimates as well as work closely with your insurance company to ensure the amount they offer covers all necessary costs.

ICBC accredited auto body shop Spotlite Collision also offers a warrant on all the work we complete for as long as you own your vehicle.This is something to be sure about regardless of the auto body shop you choose.All insurance companies demand a lifetime warranty on any and all paint and repair work done by a mechanic. However, if you do not go through your insurance they may not automatically give you this warranty.This is why it is incredibly important to ask for it to ensure you get the best work possible. Being located in Vancouver also has a major advantage when it comes to finding an auto body shop. Provincial insurance plans in the province of British Colombia give ratings to auto body shops, with the cleanest and best equipped being ranked among the highest.

Being in a car accident is stressful enough, finding a good auto body repair shop shouldn’t make it worse.We at Spotlite Collision offer the best work with a team of highly qualified, experienced mechanics that will treat your vehicle right. But I’m number one priority is the people. So whether you choose us, or decide on another we want to make sure that regardless of who you choose you are still getting honest and good work.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/choose-right-autobody-shop-vancouver/feed/0Should I Fix Stone Chips?https://spotlitecollision.ca/fix-stone-chips/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/fix-stone-chips/#respondTue, 20 Mar 2018 04:14:26 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=274Whether it was caused by a car accident, or by simple misfortune, a stone chip taken out of your windshield […]

]]>Whether it was caused by a car accident, or by simple misfortune, a stone chip taken out of your windshield is not something you want to leave alone for too long. That seemingly tiny chip out of the windshield on your car will turn into a major problem in no time at all, causing you to spend far more money on repairs than you would ever like. In some cases, a small chip left unattended has resulted in entire windshields needing to be replaced. The key is knowing how to identify these menacing little chips before they become a major safety issue.

Like most major cities, Vancouver is no stranger to major traffic on its streets and highways. Driving around the city you may encounter a few areas where gravel and stones can get picked up off the road and tossed against your windshield by other vehicles. Following a transport truck on a major highway can often lead to debris being knocked against your windshield, and in some cases, a problematic chip can result. There are a few ways to tell if this chip is going to lead to bigger issues just by looking at your windshield from outside of your car. If you see a small chip or scratch that is about the size of a nickel or a quarter, you should take a closer look and try to identify some telltale signs of a chip that needs to be fixed.

Any chip that is in a circular shape with small cracks emerging from its centre is likely going to give you problems in the future. Although it may not seem like a big deal now, moisture, dirt and even air can now get into the crack, which will make it expand over time. This is especially true in colder months, as the rapid temperature change from cold outside air to warm air in the car will cause the cracks to expand. Due to these factors, more than 90% of minor stone chips turn into major cracks on a windshield that require expensive repairs.

What to do About a Chip

The best thing to do when you notice a potentially damaging chip like the ones we’ve discussed is to get it fixed as soon as possible. For minor, tiny chips, there are actually some DIY repair kits you can find at your local hardware or auto repair store which will fill in the crack. This method is usually most effective immediately after a chip has occurred and cracks haven’t had a chance to form yet. For a crack that has become more extensive, your best bet is to take it to an auto repair specialist like the ones at Spotlite Collision. Most minor chips and cracks can be fully repaired within 30 minutes, and at a far lesser cost.

To learn more about our windshield repair services in Vancouver, as well as the other top quality auto repair services offered at Spotlite Collision, be sure to contact us or visit us in person for an estimate on your next auto body repair project.

]]>https://spotlitecollision.ca/fix-stone-chips/feed/0Top 9 Tips for Driving in Vancouverhttps://spotlitecollision.ca/top-9-tips-driving-vancouver/
https://spotlitecollision.ca/top-9-tips-driving-vancouver/#respondFri, 09 Feb 2018 18:20:14 +0000https://spotlitecollision.ca/?p=254Vancouver is a beautiful city found on Canada’s west coast in southern British Columbia. Newcomers to Vancouver will often make […]

]]>Vancouver is a beautiful city found on Canada’s west coast in southern British Columbia. Newcomers to Vancouver will often make note of the excitement and culture the city has to offer, in addition to its wonderful coastal and mountainous vistas. Depending on the time of year they arrive, visitors may also make note of the significant amount of precipitation that falls on the city. The spring and fall months in particular feature the most rainfall. For those who may not be used to driving in those wet conditions, we have a few tips and reminders below that will enhance your driving safety while helping you avoid costly and potentially dangerous collisions.

Tip #1. Slow Down

The first tip here might seem a little obvious, but it is always a good reminder for those who may not be accustomed to driving in wet conditions. Slick, wet roads and decreased visibility will make it harder to react quickly while driving. To make sure you give yourself enough time to stop quickly or steer to avoid sudden obstacles, try slowing your speed and acceleration. By doing so you will reduce the chance of hydroplaning in your car as well.

Tip #2. Avoiding Hydroplaning in Raincouver

Expanding on the previous tip, it is important to avoid hydroplaning whenever possible. Especially in Vancouver. Accelerating too quickly and spinning your tires on the wet road can be a recipe for disaster. Spinning tires that suddenly grip the road and cause you to move forward at a dangerous speed can cause an accident. Either an unsuspecting pedestrian or fellow driver may find themselves in your path after a sharp turn or acceleration, so be sure to accelerate and brake more slowly in wet conditions.

Tip #3. Increase Stopping Distance

In Vancouver wet conditions, the amount of distance your car requires to fully stop can be increased by two times. With twice the amount of distance potentially required to stop, it is definitely a good idea to be mindful of your speed and braking. To stay on the safe side, try braking sooner in wet conditions to avoid skids and potential collisions.

Tip #4. Clean Windows

Maximum visibility is always necessary to ensure safe driving conditions in any weather. Unfortunately, sudden heavy rainfall in Vancouver can cause visibility to drastically reduce in a short period of time, which is why clean windows are important to maintain. Make sure to keep your windows clear of dirt, dust and even smoke residue on both the inside and exterior of your car. You should also regularly refill your washer fluid tank with a hydrophobic washer fluid. This type of washer fluid causes water to bead and roll off your windows, which will help you maintain high levels of visibility. You should also replace your windshield wipers on an annual basis.

Tip #5. Skid Response

Unfortunately even the safest drivers find themselves in unsafe situations on the road. The key to avoiding collisions is to know how to react. If you find yourself sliding or skidding on a wet road, the first thing you need to remember is to remain calm and not to slam on the brakes. Instead, slowly take your foot off the gas and keep steering the car so its front is pointing in the direction you want to go. If your car has ABS brakes, it is all right to apply them firmly to slow down the skid. For cars with no ABS, try not to use your brakes until you have steered your way out of the skid.

Tip #6. Avoid Washed Out Roads and Big Puddles

Splashing around in wet conditions may look cool and fun on TV, but in real life you may get a different impression. A flooded road is something you should always avoid driving on if you can. Water that is high enough can get into your exhaust pipe, which will eventually reach your engine and cause your car to break down. Driving through large puddles is also a bad idea, because it is difficult to tell how deep the puddle is. You may end up causing major damage to the body of your car, not to mention your tires, alignment and even your axle.

Tip #7. Cruise Control

Highway driving is a lot easier these days thanks to cruise control. There are times however where cruise control can be more dangerous than helpful. In wet conditions, cruise control makes it far more likely that you will lose control of your vehicle in situations where rapid deceleration is required. As mentioned above, it is wise to give yourself extra time to slow down in rainy conditions. Since cruise control keeps your speed constant until you press the brakes, slowing down by taking your foot off the gas before applying the brakes is impossible, meaning there is more potential for danger cause by sudden braking on wet roads.

Tip #8. Vehicle Familiarity

When a sudden rainfall hits, it is important to be aware of the location of certain controls in your car. If you are driving a vehicle that you aren’t completely familiar with, take some time to acquaint yourself with the controls. Windshield wipers, defrosters, heat and A/C fans as well as fog lights and high beam controls for headlights are controls you should be familiar with before you drive in rainy Vancouver conditions.

Tip #9. Travel Time

A great way to reduce the stress of driving in poor, wet conditions while making it easy to follow the rest of these tips is to allow more travel time for yourself. Rainfall can cause all sorts of problems on the road that you can’t control, so giving yourself extra time to get to your destination is a practical way to deal with unexpected detours or delays.